THERE IS A SALE PENDING ON THIS ITEM
COLUMBIA DISC GRAPHOPHONE
Columbia put the other talking machine companies to shame when it came to style. Starting in the 1890s, Columbia made a signature of juxtaposing elegant nickel against robust oak. The success of this approach may be viewed here. No other brand of talking machine had THIS much class! In the antique phonograph hobby, the term "over-restored" is sometimes heard. It refers to a restoration that is too giltzy or tawdry. We at phonophan endeavor to make our restorations look "organic," that is: eye-appealing, but in keeping with the age of the instrument. Therefore, we restored the oak cabinet while preserving the original factory decals, and we have kept the nickel-plated hardware and trim in its original state, with the essence of its age still intact. The original flower horn we scrupulously restored in a deep, rich shade of translucent crimson, exactly the technique that was used at the time.
The hardware evinces a soft glow -- clean and well polished, but not flashy like the bumper of a 1950s Buick. The Disc Graphophone Type BI was also known as the "Sterling." and when we admire the lovely luster of the metal, we understand the "sterling silver" allusion.
We have carefully rebuilt the soundbox to produce bright, crisp, clear music.
The original gilt banner decal.
And speaking of decals-- here's the original "Prize Shield" decal on the front panel of the cabinet.
The double-spring motor will play any 78 rpm record, and features a fiber gear for quiet running, a signature element of Columbia engineering.
The Columbia BI Disc Graphophone -- classic good looks, superb playing quality, a must for those who want to enjoy both the visual and the auditory pleasures of a true antique phonograph.
Price: $1950.00 plus s/h, (NY State residents must add tax if applicable).
Contact: phonotim@gmail.com
Telephone: 585-582-1586
FAX: 585-582-2624
US Post: PHONOPHAN
PO Box 747
Henrietta, NY 14467 USA